news-record.com

RONNIE ANSLEY

Democrat

Birth date: Nov. 20, 1961.

Birthplace: Roanoke Rapids.

Lives in: Wake Forest.

Education: Bachelor of science in agriculture education, N.C. State University, 1984; master's in agricultural education, Clemson University, 1988; juris doctorate, Mississippi College School of Law, 1991.

Occupation: Attorney.

Web site: www.ansley4ag.com

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Serves as president of the national FFA Alumni Association and as state vice president of the N.C. FFA Alumni Council. Also serves on the National Council for Agricultural Education.

ON THE ISSUES

Agriculture is key to fixing the economy.

Seek and use biofuels and renewable energy sources.

Ensure human and animal food safety.

TRIVIA

Ansley's family home had no running water until he was 5 years old, and he never had an indoor bathroom until he went to college.

STEVE TROXLER

Republican

Current office: Commissioner of agriculture.

Birth date: April 12, 1952.

Birthplace: Guilford County.

Lives in: Browns Summit.

Spouse: Sharon.

Education: Bachelor of science in conservation, environmental studies concentration, N.C. State University, 1974.

Occupation: Founder, owner and operator of Troxler Farms.

Political career: Agriculture commissioner, 2005-present.

Web site: www.stevetroxler.com

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Serves on the boards of the state Extension Advisory Council and Guilford County Soil and Water Conservation District and has directed the Tobacco Growers Association of North Carolina. Troxler is active in the National Association of State Agricultural Departments, serving as chairman of the Tobacco Task Force and vice chairman of the Food Regulation and Nutrition Committee.

ON THE ISSUES

Ensure food safety for all North Carolinians, including protecting and preserving farmland

Aggressively market N.C. products through programs such as Got to be NC.

Improve and enhance the State Fair and Mountain State Fair.

TRIVIA

Troxler enjoys restoring antique farm equipment in his spare time.